Jorge Jesus has been named Portugal’s new head coach on a four-year contract to run through to the 2030 World Cup with the nation co-hosting the tournament.

Portugal were beaten 1-0 by Spain in the last 16 of this summer’s tournament, and former boss Roberto Martinez had already announced he would be stepping down from the role he had held since January 2023.

Portuguese Jesus, 71, has worked with national team captain Cristiano Ronaldo during his one-year deal as Al Nassr head coach, and the pair lifted the Saudi Pro League title last season.

Following Portugal’s exit on Monday, Ronaldo confirmed this World Cup would be his sixth and final, although he has made no official comment about retiring fully from international football.

Speaking on Friday, Jesus said the 41-year-old five-time Ballon d’Or winner, whose contract at Al Nassr runs until 2027, is a “symbol of Portuguese football”.

He added: “As long as he’s playing and is in a condition to be selected, I will pick him, within certain limits and under the conditions that I consider best for the national team.

“I haven’t spoken with [Ronaldo] yet. [He] is never going to be a problem for the national team. Not for the national team, nor for me.

“I had great pleasure working with him this past year, [it’s] easy to work with him.”

Jesus’ first game in charge will be Portugal’s Nations League opening Group D game against against Wales on 24 September.

Portugal are co-hosting the World Cup in four years with Spain and Morocco.

Jesus, who won a domestic treble with Saudi club Al Hilal in the 2023-24 season, lifted three league titles during his first spell as manager of Portuguese side Benfica in 2010, 2014 and 2015.

The Portuguese also enjoyed success in Brazil during his one year with Flamengo, winning five major trophies including the Brazilian title and the Copa Libertadores in 2019. (BBC)

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